Things to Do in Louisiana This Weekend
Here's a roundup of Louisiana events and activities happening this weekend.
When the weather heats up in Louisiana, we head to the water. From fishing rodeos to seafood festivals, we get creative when it comes to finding ways to cool off. Take a break from the heat with a snoball, explore a river trail or step inside a local art museum.
Featured Festivals & Events in Louisiana
Washington Parish Balloon Festival
May 29-31
Franklinton
Hot air balloons fill the sky with colorful flights and glowing evening displays at the Washington Parish Balloon Festival. Expect tethered rides, summer games, live music, a carnival, a rodeo and plenty of food and craft vendors. Plan your visit around scheduled launch times, then dive into the full weekend of fun.
Load up the coolers and grab your sunscreen for a day on the water. Louisiana River Adventures in Franklinton takes visitors on tubing, kayaking and canoeing trips down the Bogue Chitto River.
Jean Lafitte Seafood Fest
May 29-31
Jean Lafitte
As evening settles in, the Jean Lafitte Seafood Festival unfolds against the backdrop of Louisiana’s wetlands. Stroll the Wetland Trace, a boardwalk through a 41-acre cypress swamp, while sampling fresh local seafood, exploring the art walk and enjoying talented local musicians. You can even get out on the water with kayak rentals for a closer look at Louisiana’s swamp country.
Try the Cajun life for yourself at Jean Lafitte Harbor. Pull crab traps, set trout lines, cast nest or work a jug line — just keep an eye out for alligators along the way! Then head back to the pavilion, where an in-house chef prepares your fresh catch for a true taste of the region.
Art ‘N Code
May 30
Lake Charles
Experience Art ‘N Code, a free public workshop at The Art Factory that explores how people communicate distress, care and connection through art. Experiment with collage, drawing, color and pattern, and learn about Morse code and symbolic language.
Extend your stay with a trip to Sam Houston Jones State Park, where Bayou Adventure provides self-serve paddle rentals perfect for a day on the water.
CFMA Cajun Jam
May 30
Lafayette
Ever wonder what a true Cajun jam is like? Now’s your chance to experience musicians playing together at a cozy, intimate gathering courtesy of the Cajun French Music Association. The event is open to musicians of all skill levels.
After the jam, explore Vermilionville, a living history museum and folklife park that explores Acadian, Native American and Creole heritage. See demonstrations of period crafts or grab a plate of hot, spicy gumbo for lunch.
Daylily Festival & Garden Show
May 30
Abbeville
Each summer, Abbeville hosts the Daylily Festival & Garden Show, a celebration of gardeners and the plants they adore. Purchase new plants for your outdoor oasis, find nifty garden accessories that bring your dream to life and grab lunch from local vendors. Throughout the day, listen to expert horticulturalists share their top tips.
While you’re in town, visit the Abbeville Cultural & Historical Alliance. This fascinating, comprehensive museum features several displays, but be sure to explore the community’s work on Nova Scotian Cajuns and Abbeville’s Giant Omelette Festival — one of Louisiana’s wackiest longstanding traditions.
Learn more about Vermilion Parish.
The Komenka Ethnic Dance & Music Ensemble Spring Concert
May 30
New Orleans
If you love global-inspired music and dance, don’t miss The Komenka Ethnic Dance and Music Ensemble’s spring concert. Now in its 44th year, the ensemble represents cultures from Argentina to Hungary, India and Zimbabwe.
Explore even more cultures and traditions through reading. Find books at local stores like the Garden District Book Shop, which is tucked into a former roller rink, before visiting Tubby & Coo’s and Baldwin & Co.
Movie Night in the Park
May 30
Patterson
Kick off summer with a family-friendly movie night in Morey Park. Giggle along to “GOAT,” an animated film that highlights one unsuspecting goat’s quest to become a professional athlete. Admission is free, and refreshments will be available for purchase.
Before the show, explore the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area, a lush stretch of terraces, swamps and marshes. Too hot for a hike? Drive down the Bayou Teche National Scenic Byway for tranquil southern views.
Plan your trip to the Cajun Coast.
State Parks & Preserves
Statewide
Louisiana is home to 21 beautiful state parks filled with fun family experiences. As temperatures rise and foliage blooms, consider the state’s exciting hiking, biking and paddle trails. Or book a getaway at one of our lovely cabins.
Whether you're an outdoor adventurer, music lover or just crave good food, Louisiana is filled with opportunities to #FeedYourSoul. Check our events calendar for more festivities.
